Bald Archy Prize opens

The opening of the Bald Archy Prize exhibition was held at Geelong’s National Wool Museum on Friday night, with a “Cats Versus Culture, that is the question” comedy debate between notable Geelong locals. There are 45 finalists in the exhibition, which includes paintings of politicians, sports people, entertainers, media representatives and others.

The 2017 prize lampoons a range of controversial characters and perplexing politicians such as Donald Trump, Bronwyn Bishop and perennial subject, Pauline Hanson. The Bald Archy Prize is regarded as Australia’s most popular and eccentric art competition for comic and satiric portraits, and the only competition in the world to be judged by a sulphurcrested cockatoo named Maude. Now in its 24th year, this spoof of the more serious Archibald Prize tours regularly throughout Australia’s eastern states, where it is in great demand. Entry to the National Wool Museum is free for children 16 years and under.

The exhibition runs until November 11. The opening night debate was declared a draw.